Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Season and Sear the Pork:
   • Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and black pepper.
   • In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until browned. This step helps lock in the flavors.

1. Saute Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the sliced onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Braise the Pork:
   • Pour in the apple cider and broth, and add the bay leaves. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
   • Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the pork for 2 to 3 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.

1. Add Apples and Vinegar:
   • About 30 minutes before the pork is done, add the sliced apples and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Continue cooking until the apples are tender.
2. Check and Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the braising liquid and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaves.
3. Serve:
   • Once the pork is tender and the apples are soft, remove the pot from the oven.
   • Transfer the pork to a serving platter, spoon some of the braising liquid and apples over the top, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

1. Optional: Reduce Braising Liquid:
   • If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can simmer the braising liquid on the stovetop over medium heat for a few minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.

Serve the apple cider braised pork shoulder with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. The combination of the apple cider, savory herbs, and tender pork creates a delicious and comforting dish.